City Of Orphans Author:Avi This story takes place in New York City in 1893. Maks, the main character, is a newsboy dealing with a gang (the Pug Uglies) who beats up newsies,(newsboys trying to sell newspapers) and takes their money. Maks is saved from being beaten up by a homeless girl, named, Willa. Maks' family lives in the tenements and tries to earn a few cents a ... more »day to help out his immigrant family.« less